Chas Freeman dispute about more than just Israel

Pity the poor readers whose exposure to the Chas Freeman appointment brouhaha was limited to The Times’ March 12 editorial. Not only would they be under the mistaken notion that the entire controversy was a proxy fight between those who "believe that Israel should be immune from criticism" and those more enlightened. They'd also have no inkling whatsoever that many of Freeman's critics took issue with what the would-be National Intelligence Council chairman has said about two far less liberal countries with nary a kibbutz between them: Saudi Arabia and China.

The Times editorialized: "Vehement objections came from several of Israel's most loyal supporters in Congress, from some journalists and lobbyists known for their strong support of the Jewish state, and from other members of what some would no doubt call, well, the Israel lobby." That description leaves out a few people. For instance, a non-insignificant Californian named Nancy Pelosi, who, Newsweek reported, "was incensed about public remarks that Freeman once made that seemed to justify the violent 1989 Chinese government crackdown on democracy protesters at Tiananmen Square."

What non-L.A. Times-reported remarks were those? Try this: "For myself, I side on this ... with Gen. Douglas MacArthur. I do not believe it is acceptable for any country to allow the heart of its national capital to be occupied by dissidents intent on disrupting the normal functions of government, however appealing to foreigners their propaganda may be." Bonus points for those who recognize the endorsement of America's shameful Bonus Army episode.